Weakness and fatigue are different conditions. Sometimes, people think they're weak, when in reality, they are fatigued. It's important to understand the difference between weakness and fatigue, so that you can get the right help for how you're feeling.
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Weakness. This is when your muscles aren't as strong as they should be. It can develop quickly or slowly over time. It may affect all of the muscles in the body (generalized weakness) or only one part of the body. Some causes of generalized weakness include a decrease in physical fitness, loss of muscle tissue from long periods of inactivity, abnormal electrolyte levels, and use of certain medicines, such as corticosteroids. Some causes of weakness in specific muscles include strokes, nerve damage, an injured disk in the spine, and neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis. Symptoms of weakness depend on which muscles are affected.
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Fatigue. This is when you feel really tired, worn out, or low on energy. It's when you feel a strong need to rest or have so little energy that doing any activity is difficult. It can happen if you're too active or not active enough, stressed, don't get enough good quality sleep, or have an unhealthy diet. Other causes of fatigue include viral infections, emotional problems, especially depression, and severe illnesses, such as heart failure and cancer. Side effects from medicine may also cause fatigue. Fatigue is usually a sign that something else might be going on.
Based on your exam today, the exact cause of your symptoms is not clear. But your symptoms do not seem to be a sign of a serious illness at this time. Keep an eye on your symptoms and get medical advice as directed below.
Home care
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Rest at home today. Don't overexert yourself.
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Take any medicine as prescribed.
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For the next few days, drink extra fluids unless your doctor wants you to restrict fluids for other reasons. Don't skip meals.
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Unless otherwise directed, continue to take any prescription medicines.
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Contact your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your doctor, or as advised.
When to get medical advice
Call your doctor right away if:
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Symptoms get worse or new symptoms develop.
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Symptoms don't start getting better within 2 days.
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You have night sweats.
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You have swollen lymph nodes.
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You have pain.
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You have a fever of 100.4º F (38º C) or higher, or as directed by your doctor.
Call 911
Call
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Pain in the chest, arm, neck, jaw, or upper back.
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Trouble breathing.
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Numbness or weakness of the face, one arm, or one leg.
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Slurred speech, confusion, or trouble speaking, walking, or seeing.
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Blood in vomit or stool (black or red color).
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Severe headache.
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Loss of consciousness, such as fainting.
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Loss of the ability to walk.
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Weakness that becomes severe over a few days or less.
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Difficulty raising your head while lying down.
